Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Superficial thrombophlebitis is an inflammatory condition of the veins due to a blood clot just below the surface of the skin. It usually occurs in the legs, but it can occasionally occur in the arms and neck. Anyone can develop superficial thrombophlebitis, but females are affected more than males.

What Are the Risk Factors That Contribute to Developing Superficial Thrombophlebitis?

Several factors contribute to and increase the risk of developing superficial thrombophlebitis. The more common risk factors include:

recent IV, catheter, or injection into a vein

sitting or lying down for too long, such as on a long flight

varicose veins

pregnancy

infection

disorders that increase blood clotting

obesity

smoking

oral contraceptives and hormone replacement medications

being over 60

chemical irritation, such as from cancer treatments

Superficial thrombophlebitis is also associated with more serious medical conditions, including:

What Is the Treatment For Superficial Thrombophlebitis?

Superficial thrombophlebitis is treated at home in most cases. Your doctor might recommend applying a warm compress to the affected area and elevating it to relieve swelling. Wearing support stockings can also help reduce swelling.

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and aspirin can help reduce the redness and irritation caused by inflammation. This condition usually goes away within two weeks. It can take longer for the hardness in your vein to subside.

In a rare, serious instance, removal or stripping of the vein is necessary. This is more common if you have varicose veins.

Are There Any Long-Term Effects of Superficial Thrombophlebitis?

Superficial thrombophlebitis is a short-term condition. Generally, there are no complications. However, they are possible in rare cases. One possible complication is a skin infection called cellulitis. Cellulitis is caused by bacteria and treated with antibiotics in most cases. Another possible complication is deep vein thrombosis. It occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein deeper inside your body. This condition can be life-threatening if the clot breaks apart and travels to your lungs.

Barring these rare complications, a full recovery is expected in one to two weeks. However, hardening of the vein may take a little longer to heal. Recovery may also take longer if an infection is involved, or if you also have deep vein thrombosis.

Superficial thrombophlebitis may recur if you have varicose veins. Further testing and treatment may be necessary if you have recurrent superficial thrombophlebitis but do not have varicose veins.

Can Superficial Thrombophlebitis Be Prevented?

Prevention of superficial thrombophlebitis is limited, but you can take some steps. For example, if an IV is causing it, remove or change the location of the IV. The IV should be taken out at the first sign of inflammation.

Stand up and move around every couple of hours when traveling. Move your arms and legs around and stretch if you must sit or lie down for long periods.

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